Through our Transition to Work program, NBACL supports students with an intellectual disability to become “workforce ready,” so that more people with an intellectual disability are participating in New Brunswick’s workforce.
The Role of the Transition Facilitator
Throughout this project, a facilitator from NBACL will work with participating students, their families, teachers, and others to develop a “person-centered” transition plan. “Person-centred,” means that the student’s interests, goals, strengths and abilities come first. The student is directly involved in guiding the direction of his or her employment goals. Employment opportunities are then identified based on that student’s specific interests.
The transition plan will set out goals and activities to help ensure each student will be prepared for life after they leave high school.
The NBACL facilitator will:
- Gather information about each student’s strengths, interests, and needs;
- Coordinate transition planning meetings;
- Investigate the community programs and resources that may benefit students before and after they complete high school;
- Work with students to help them learn important employment skills;
- Help to secure work experience opportunities for students in grade 12;
- Connect students to employment agencies and other organizations to arrange work experience and volunteer opportunities;
- Prepare and finalize transition plans for each participating student; and
- Help to ensure the activities identified in transition plans are carried out.
Job Readiness Classes
NBACL Transition Facilitators provide opportunities to learn about work and what is required to become successful employees. Through small weekly Job Readiness classes, students are provided with basic information and opportunities to learn essential employment related skills during school hours:
• Resume, cover letter writing, and interviewing
• Hygiene and appropriate dress;
• Employer expectations; and
• Navigating community transportation or driver’s license, etc.
Workplace Experience
NBACL Transition Facilitators work in partnership with the school’s Co-op teacher to find the best work placement for each student. Student work placements are based on the student’s interests and goals. We look at interests, talents, and experiences to determine the best fit for both the student and the employer. To get the most out of our program, students will ideally take the Co-op course in their second semester of grade 12 to help ensure a smooth transition to work from school following graduation.
Supports to Students
NBACL offers many supports as needed to make this a success for all involved. Some of the supports we offer include:
• Hiring job coaches;
• Employee education; and
• Customized employment.
NBACL works to address any concerns in a timely manner to ensure students are well supported.
Student Eligibility
• Students must be enrolled in high school in grades 10, 11 and 12;
• Participants must also have an intellectual disability;
The project is funded by the Government of Canada’s Community Inclusion Initiative, Social Development Partnerships Program and The United Way, and Province of New Brunswick Department of Post Secondary Education, Training, and Labour.
